This study represents the first systematic attempt to explore the functioning of the policing and criminal justice system in post-devolution Wales. Its particular relevance is underscored by the revelation that Wales has the highest imprisonment rate in western Europe. Drawing on official data as well as extensive interviews with senior figures, this book represents the first systematic exploration of the operation of the justice system in Wales across the jagged edge of devolved and non-devolved functions. There remains little understanding of how the justice system operates in the anomalous circumstances of post-devolution Wales This book aims to fill this gap in understanding and concludes with an assessment of the proposals of the Commission on Justice in Wales for reform.

This collection of research and evaluation explores issues in mental health and probation across the globe. The volume offers insight into a wide range of interrelated topics that address the mental health and mental health needs of those under probation supervision. The chapters embrace a range of diverse mental health concerns. The underpinning assumption is that offenders should receive mental healthcare that is ‘equivalent’ to that received by the general population where this is appropriate. This overview is informed by perspectives from academics and practitioners based in England and the Republic of Ireland, and also includes the views of people with lived experience of the Criminal Justice System. Building upon and adding to the existing literature in this field, the book will be a valuable resource for academics and researchers as well as those training to work in, and currently working in, the criminal justice and mental health field, and would also be of interest to those working in related healthcare settings.

This book offers a new approach to help students to understand problematic substance use across a range of social work practice settings. Written from both an anti-discriminatory and evidence-based perspective, the book highlights successful responses to the issues. Each chapter includes reflective exercises and examples of further reading, challenging students to critically reflect on their practice. The book provides a detailed understanding of: " Historical and current policy relating to prohibition and drug use " A range of substances and their potential effects on service users " Models of best practice including screening and assessment, brief intervention, motivation approaches and relapse prevention " Particular issues and needs of a diverse range of service user groups This will be an essential text for social work students taking courses in substance use and addiction. It will also be valuable reading for qualified social workers and students taking related courses across the health and social care field.

Based on extensive research initiated by the UK Home Office, Reducing Crime offers an objective look at the effectiveness of criminal justice interventions in the reduction of crime. Bringing together information about where, for whom and at what cost these interventions are effective, the book examines alcohol prevention and drug treatment studies; courts, sentencing and police interventions; probation and prison interventions; and situational burglary and housing interventions. In addition to a cost/benefits analysis of each intervention, the book also discusses future research and policy directions.

The Committee undertook this inquiry to address concerns about the imprisonment of Welsh prisoners outside Wales. At present there are only four prisons in Wales, all in the South, and there is little provision for juveniles and no prisons for women. The overcrowding means that Welsh prisoners have a reduced chance of serving their sentence near home and reduces the chances of successful resettlement on release. The Committee believe there should be new prison places in North Wales, separate provision for young offenders and a new approach to women prisoners along the lines suggested by Baroness Corston. The report also address concerns about support services for mental illness amongst prisoners, the amount of Welsh language provision and education services.

During the past decade, the UK government has increasingly sought to reduce levels of crime and anti-social behaviour through tackling problem drug use among offenders. Despite debates about the precise nature of the relationship between drug use and offending, a multiplicity of interventions have been introduced in an attempt to break the apparent link between problem drug use and crime, particularly acquisitive crime. These interventions have proliferated over time but have now been combined under the umbrella of the Drug Interventions Programme which aims to channel and, many would argue, coerce drug-using offenders into treatment.

Every year thousands of people compete for employment in the UK. Employability and the ability to demonstrate the skills, attributes and behaviours required in a full-time job have become integral to securing employment and developing a career. This book aims to offer a one-stop guide to becoming employable and to careers in the Criminal Justice Sector and beyond, exploring the key organizations and employers in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, explaining how they operate and detailing how they are changing. Written in an engaging and accessible style by four experts on employability and the Criminal Justice Sector, this book combines useful hints on becoming employable with helpful insights from those working in specific sectors. The book covers careers in: probation, the police, prisons, the courts, prosecution services and advocacy, youth justice. Packed with hints and tips, advice from current students, useful web links and lists of recommended reading, this book provides a clear guide to the career decision-making and transition processes and covers the essential elements required to making the first step towards securing a job in the above sectors. It will be essential reading for those who want to forge a successful career in any area of the Criminal Justice Sector.